Miss May Belfort (large plate)

Miss May Belfort (large plate) is a significant color lithograph on cream wove paper created in 1895 by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec French, 1864-1901. As one of the premier printmakers of the Belle Époque, Toulouse-Lautrec elevated the status of prints from mere reproductions to independent artistic statements. This particular piece, classified as a print, exemplifies his mastery of the lithographic process, where he utilized vibrant inks and broad areas of color to capture the essence of his subjects. The use of the "large plate" format underscores its function as both a collectible artwork and a dynamic public image designed for maximum visual impact.

The subject, May Belfort, was an Irish singer famous in the cabarets of Montmartre, Paris, during the 1890s. Toulouse-Lautrec often depicted her signature stage presence, typically involving a distinctive white or pink dress and the unusual inclusion of a small kitten, a juxtaposition of innocence and theatricality that fascinated Parisian audiences. The artist’s characteristic flattened perspective, strong outlines derived from Japanese ukiyo-e prints, and sophisticated use of color define this iconic portrayal. Toulouse-Lautrec’s intensive documentation of performers like Belfort provides a crucial visual record of entertainment culture in late nineteenth-century France.

This definitive impression of Miss May Belfort (large plate) is held within the esteemed permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. As a key figure in modern art and a master of color printing, Toulouse-Lautrec's works remain highly sought after. Due to the historical nature and age of the print, high-resolution reproductions of this masterwork are often available to scholars and collectors through public domain initiatives, ensuring the accessibility of this vital contribution to the history of French prints.